Sports bag with integral transportation system

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a sports bag assembly with an integral wheeled transportation system. The bag assembly can accommodate the transportation and storage of sports equipment. The wheels can be deployed and retracted with a single mechanical movement, and may be stowed within the geometry of the bag. The bag assembly can fit within the recessed areas of platforms on the rear of motorized golf carts; within conventional storage stands, racks, lockers, vehicle trunks and/or hatches typically found around golf courses and in residences; and within travel containers or other systems for traditional golf bags. The golf bag assembly may also include a ventilated club storage compartment to facilitate the drying of clubs (including grips), and allow drainage of fluids which may enter the interior of the bag assembly. The bag assembly can also include a support and suspension system which restrains the grip and upper shaft or hosel ends of clubs which stabilizes and protects clubs during transport and play. The restraint system also can enhance the golfing experience by reducing or eliminating noise generated by clubs banging together during transportation. The restraint system can also extend the life of golf clubs by preventing contact between clubs, which contact could damage and alter frequency settings for various clubs.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/099,617,filed May 3, 2011 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,764,030 on Jun. 1, 2014)which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/303,442, filed Dec. 15, 2005, (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,934,729 onMay 3, 2011) which was a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/143,936, filed Jun. 3, 2005 (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,287,765),which application was a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Patentapplication Ser. No. 60/576,620, filed Jun. 4, 2004, and U.S.Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/618,588, filed Oct. 15, 2004.Priority of each of these applications is hereby claimed and each isincorporated herein by reference.

This is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/303,442, filed Dec. 15, 2005, (issuing as U.S. Pat. No. 7,934,729 onMay 3, 2011) which was a continuation-in-part of PCT Patent applicationnumber PCT/US2005/019252, filed Jun. 3, 2005, which was anon-provisional of U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No.60/576,620, filed Jun. 4, 2004, and U.S. Provisional Patent applicationSer. No. 60/618,588, filed Oct. 15, 2004. Priority of each of theseapplications is hereby claimed and each is incorporated herein byreference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX”

Not applicable

BACKGROUND

Golf is a game played on a natural surface, although some surfaces canbe artificial. In golf, an individual uses a golf club to strike a ball(which ball can be mounted on a tee); ultimately desiring to sink theball into a hole located some distance away from the tee. After strikingthe ball from a tee, the golfer must transport clubs, golf accessories,and personal items to the ball's new location and repeat the strikingand transporting process over the length of the hole until the golferultimately reaches the green area and completes the hole by sinking theball in the hole. Typically, the golfer's clubs and various golfaccessories and personal items can be located in a bag. After thecompletion of a hole, the golfer then transports clubs, golfaccessories, and personal items to the next tee area. This sequence isrepeated throughout a round of golf, which traditionally is playedoutdoors on a course that consists of eighteen holes and spans adistance of between three to eight miles.

A golf bag for the transportation of clubs, golf accessories, andpersonal items can be standard equipment for any golfer. Traditionalgolf bags generally are cylindrical in shape with an opening at the topof the bag to accommodate insertion and removal of clubs and some typesof accessories which may be elongated. Additionally, traditional golfbags typically are equipped with compartments or pockets placed atvarious locations on the outer circumference to facilitatetransportation and storage of golf accessories and personal items.

The storage of clubs, golf accessories, and personal items addssubstantial weight to golf bags and often creates heavy loads forgolfers to lift, move, carry, or otherwise transport about the golfcourse. To ease this burden, some golf bags have incorporated shoulderstraps or hand grips located on the bag's outer circumference. Somegolfers hire caddies or assistants to carry the golf bag throughout around of golf. Some golfers mount their bags on a pull or push cartswhich can be rolled or on motorized golf carts.

Golfers expend considerable physical effort, in addition to expense, inavoiding the burdens of manually lifting, carrying, moving, and/ortransporting their golf bags around a golf course. Although wheels canbe mounted to the base of golf bags in a permanently fixed and exposedlocation, such wheels are awkward in appearance. Additionally, suchwheels can be hazardous, especially when golfers insert or remove thesewheeled bags from trunks or storage hatches of vehicles. Additionally,golf bags with wheels in permanently fixed and exposed positionsgenerally do not fit within the recessed areas of typical platforms ofmotorized golf carts. Wheels which are permanently fixed and exposedalso create bulky and irregular shapes making it difficult to store suchgolf bags in conventional storage stands, racks, bins, lockers, trunks,platforms or other similar storage configurations found in and aroundgolf courses. Additionally, golf bags with permanently fixed and exposedwheels do not fit within travel containers or systems for traditionalgolf bags.

Some golf bag designs have sought to address the awkward appearance,difficulties in handling and storage, and operational hazards posed bypermanently fixed and exposed wheels by making the wheels detachable.However, after detachment, the wheels and their associated equipmentmust be stored either within the bag itself or in a separate carryall orcontainer. Stowing the detached wheels and associated equipment withinthe bag, severely compromises the amount of space within the bag'sstorage area for clubs. Such reduction in space precludes or limits roomneeded for the adequate storage of clubs, golf accessories, and personalitems. It also impairs a golfer's ability to remove and re-insert clubs.Furthermore, a golfer must expend considerable time and effort attachingthe wheels and their associated equipment to the bag before startingplay, and detaching and storing these items after play is completed.

Additionally, designs with detachable wheels and their associatedequipment typically require: that the length and circumference of thebag be substantially increased (compared to traditional golf bags); thatthe modified bag be reshaped in an entirely new configuration, such as asquare or rectangle; or that the outer compartments of the bag bematerially expanded to accommodate the storage of the detached wheelsand their associated equipment as well as golf accessories and personalitems. Such modifications create an excessively bulky and deformedrolling bag bearing little resemblance to traditional golf bags—makingthe bag substantially greater in weight; difficult to maneuver; andgenerally unsuitable for the transportation and storage of clubs, golfaccessories, and personal items. Enlarging the bag's length andcircumference (in addition to the bag's outer compartments) also causesthe breadth of the bag to be so broad, that it cannot fit within therecessed areas of platforms on the rear of motorized golf carts.Furthermore, the modified bag is dimensionally incompatible withconventional storage stands, racks, bins, lockers, trunks, platforms,and other similar storage configurations typically found in and aroundgolf courses and residences, and also within travel containers andsystems for traditional golf bags.

Prior attempts to overcome the challenges faced when incorporating atransportation system into a traditionally shaped golf bag have not beensatisfactory.

Presently there is no golf bag with a three or more wheel integraltransportation system, and there is no three or more wheel integraltransportation system which can be deployed and retracted withoutrequiring the assembly and disassembly of component parts. Additionally,there is no golf bag having an integral transportation system thatmaintains the appearance and dimensions of a traditional golfbag; thatincludes adequate storage space for clubs, golf accessories, andpersonal items; that uses a portion of the space commonly used forshorter golf club storage to stow a portion of the integraltransportation system; that does not limit the regulatory permissiblenumber of clubs that may be stored in the club storage area; thatreduces the operational hazards associated with transferring the golfbag assembly in and out of vehicle trunks or hatches; that fits in therecessed areas of platforms on the rear of motorized carts; and/or thatis dimensionally compatible with conventional storage stands, racks,bins, lockers, trunks, platforms, or other similar storageconfigurations typically found in and around golf courses andresidences, and/or fits within travel storage containers or systems fortraditional golf bags.

While certain novel features of this invention shown and described beloware pointed out in the annexed claims, the invention is not intended tobe limited to the details specified, since a person of ordinary skill inthe relevant art will understand that various omissions, modifications,substitutions and/or changes in the forms and details of the deviceillustrated and in its operation may be made without departing in anyway from the spirit of the present invention. No feature of theinvention is critical or essential unless it is expressly stated asbeing “critical” or “essential.”

BRIEF SUMMARY

The apparatus and method of the present invention solves the problemsconfronted in the art in a simple and straightforward manner.

One embodiment generally relates to sports equipment bags. Moreparticularly, one embodiment relates to a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system that can be deployed, and retracted, and thenstored within the confines of the bag. One embodiment may be used inconnection with various sports that involve the use of clubs, sticks,bats, poles, or similar elongated devices in connection with thestriking, hitting, or driving of circular, spherical, elliptical, orsimilar objects.

In one embodiment is provided a bag comprising a structural system ofone or more substantially horizontal bands, more or less evenly spacedat multiple horizontal levels in relation to the bag, along withmultiple vertical rods that provide skeletal structure and rigidity tothe bag. In one embodiment the vertical rods intersect with verticalpassages in the horizontal bands and connect at their upper terminus toa top cylindrical collar, and connect at their lower terminus to thebase of the bag near the circumference of the base. The conjoinedhorizontal bands and vertical rods can provide structural support andrigidity to maintain the integrity and geometry of the bag, and toresist forces or loads imposed on the bag from the handling andtransport of the assembly, or the removal or replacement of clubs, golfaccessories, and personal items in the bag.

In one embodiment multiple wheels can be deployed from a recessedstowage compartment with one mechanical movement. In one embodimentdeployment can be initiated by elevating a push/pull steering handle. Inone embodiment the angle of the steering handle can be adjusted to bestconform to the height of the golfer and to reduce the amount of externalforce needed to push or pull the golf bag. In one embodiment the bag maybe rolled when the wheels of the golf bag are extended and locked in thedeployed position. The bag can be moved to traverse pavement, stone,shell, brick, asphalt, wooden planks and similar man-made surfaces, aswell as various types of organic and non-organic materials such asground cover, grass, sand, pine straw, rock, stone, dirt, and othersurfaces found on golf courses, play grounds, soccer fields, baseballfields, lacrosse fields, and other similar sports fields.

In one embodiment is provided a bag having an integral wheeledtransportation system where the wheels are contained within the geometryof the club container portion (when the wheels are fully retracted).Multiple shapes can be used for the geometry of the club containerportion such as circular, elliptical, rectangular, square, polygonal, ora combination thereof. In this embodiment, a cross section taken throughthe club container portion and projected downward toward the retractedwheels will contain the retracted wheels.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system where wheels when retracted will not touch toground.

In one embodiment is provided a bag including a recessed stowagecompartment to conceal the multiple wheeled integral transportationsystem in a retracted position, as well as storage compartments for golfaccessories and personal items.

One embodiment includes a golf bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system whose overall dimensions of height or length, anddiameter or girth, are consistent with the geometry of traditional golfbags, and which system facilitates and enhances the mobility,transportation, and storage of the golf bag and its contents, includingwithout limitation, clubs and related golfing accessories and personalitems, such as golf balls, tees, gloves, divot repair tools, ballretrieval devices, markers, pencils, score cards, scoring devices, tape,medical supplies, sun screen, eyeglasses, distance or range finders,global positioning devices, watches, jewelry, clothing, shoes,umbrellas, cell phones, tablets, and other related items.

In one embodiment is provided a bag having an integral wheeledtransportation system which fits in conventional storage stands, racks,bins, lockers, trunks, platforms, and other similar storageconfigurations typically found in and around golf courses andresidences, and also within travel containers or systems for traditionalgolf bags (when the bag includes clubs). This embodiment would includefitting a bag in a motorized golf cart.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system where, during deployment and retraction of wheels,at least one wheel has a different type of movement than at least oneother wheel. This can include linear movement of at least one wheel andarcuate type movement of at least one other wheel. In one embodiment atleast two wheels can have arcuate type movement.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system having three or more retractable wheels. In oneembodiment at least one wheel can be a different size (diameter and/orthickness) than at least one other wheel. In one embodiment the wheelscan be of the same size (diameter and/or thickness). Using three or morewheels has the advantage of distributing the load caused by the bag onthe golf course and placing less of the load on each wheel (e.g., usingthree or more wheels as opposed to two wheels), enhancing transportationstability, and allowing transportation by pushing or pulling withouthaving to exert force to cause the bottom of the bag to lift above theground.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system where at least one wheel can change its relativeangle to its supporting leg during extension and/or retraction. Oneembodiment has at least one wheel aligning itself perpendicular to theground at full extension of its supporting leg (alternatively, aligningregardless of the amount of extension). One embodiment allows at leastone wheel to be mechanically (or rotatively) adjusted (and then fixed)at a set angle relative to its supporting leg so that it isperpendicular to the ground at full extension.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system that allows for movement while maintaining fullstability when the wheels are deployed and the bag is being pushed orpulled. This system can also be a push cart as opposed to only a pullcart. Additionally, the bag can be self stable when being pushed.Accordingly, in this embodiment the user is not required to tilt thesystem in advance of each movement, which tilting wastes energy, causesunnecessary fatigue, and tends to move the clubs and cause them torepeatedly hit each other (possibly causing damage).

In one embodiment is provided a bag with integral wheeled transportationsystem where a handle is operatively connected to the wheels by at leastone gear. One embodiment includes multiple gears. In one embodimentteeth can intermesh (or interlock) with the gears.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system where a handle is operatively connected to thewheels and has a pivoting system. Another embodiment allows the handleto pivot to accommodate multiple different preferred angles of a userand to maximize the effective pushing force applied by a user to thehandle. Another embodiment allows the handle to be locked in variouspivoting positions.

In one embodiment is provided a support system in the bag which supports(and/or restrains) and/or elevates the grips and clubs in the bag,thereby protecting the clubs during transport and play. This system canprevent the clubs from hitting each other and causing damage.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system where clubs can be resistantly locked intoposition, such as by an upper rack section, so the clubs do not moveand/or contact each other during movement. One embodiment includesreceptacles on the top and bottom of the bag. One embodiment includesreceptacles on the top having compressible and/or friction locks and/orclasps. One embodiment includes restraining devices on the topreceptacles. One embodiment includes restraining members on the bottomreceptacles.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system including an internal space for storage havingupper and lower sections where the lower section allows the heads ortops of the longer clubs to be stored at relatively the same level asshorter clubs (viewed from the side of the bag). One embodiment has thefront of the bag being deeper than the rear. One embodiment has thewheels retracting into the rear section.

In one embodiment is provided a quick release/lock system for retractionand/or deployment of the integral wheeled transportation system. Anotherembodiment includes a locking system having teeth which interlock withat least one rod. In another embodiment the locking system includes aplurality of openings and pegs which interlock in the openings.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system which includes a cleaning system, such as brush,system of brushes, or frictional device to clean the wheels beingretracted and/or deployed.

In one embodiment is provided a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system equipped with ventilation/drainage openings,promoting the drying of the club ends, and/or drains the club storagecompartment.

In one embodiment the exterior of the bag assembly incorporatesconventionally available golf bag exteriors, such as metal, upholstered,and/or molded materials. In one embodiment the exterior finish alsoconceals and protects the integral wheeled transportation system whenthe system is retracted.

In one embodiment the bag assembly includes a plurality of compartmentson its exterior, such as for storage of golf accessories and personalitems. In one embodiment one or more of these compartments can useVelcro®, zippers, buttons, compression snaps, or hook and loop closuredevices. In one embodiment the interior compartment of the bag caninclude pockets or other compartments accessible when the integralwheeled transportation system is deployed. In one embodiment, the bagassembly includes a self contained, removable compartment orcompartments, with one or more of the features described above, whichcan be mounted on the exterior of the bag and used for the storage ofgolf accessories and personal items.

In one embodiment the integral wheeled transportation system can becontained in a golf bag of traditional height, internal diameter, andexterior girth without diminishing or functionally impinging upon theclub storage area present in traditional golf bags. By maintainingtraditional dimensions of a golf bag, one embodiment affords a golfer,who chooses to ride on a motorized golf cart, the ability to easilymount the bag on the recessed platform of a motorized golf cart, such asin the cart's golf bag retaining area or platform. In contrast, the rearof the cart or platform would not accommodate (without substantialmodification) a traditional golf bag attached to an external ornon-integrated rolling cart; a golf bag with permanently fixed andexposed wheels; or a golf bag with transportation system that includedattachable and detachable wheels and related components.

In one embodiment a bag with an integral wheeled transportation systemcan be easily inserted and removed from the trunk or hatch of a vehiclewithout encountering operational hazards. Additionally, it occupies lessspace in a trunk or hatch of a vehicle than that occupied by atraditional golf bag attached to an external or non-integrated rollingcart; a golf bag with permanently fixed and exposed wheels; or a golfbag with a transportation system that includes attachable and detachablewheels and related components.

In one embodiment a bag with an integral wheeled transportation systemcan be stored in traditional golf bag storage stands, racks, lockers,bins, trunks, platforms, and other similar storage configurationstypically found in and around golf courses and residences.

In one embodiment golfers who travel with a bag with an integral wheeledtransportation system can still use travel containers or other systemsfor traditional golf bags.

In one embodiment the bag with an integral wheeled transportation systemenables golfers to exercise by walking golf courses without having toexpend energy tilting, lifting, and/or carrying a golf bag, clubs, golfaccessories, and personal items.

One embodiment affords golfers the means to move a golf bag, togetherwith its contents, including clubs, golf accessories, and personalitems, without having to transport, assemble, rent or otherwise procurea separate piece of equipment, such as a cumbersome non-integratedrolling cart or a motorized golf cart.

In one embodiment incorporation of multiple wheels (preferably three) inthe bag greatly enhances the mobility of the assembly. In one embodimentincluding at least one forward wheel and two rear wheels allows golfersthe flexibility to either push or pull the assembly. Additionally, thegolfer is not required to tilt the assembly to the rear and at an anglecloser to the ground (such as required by two-wheeled golf bags).Additionally, with at least a forward wheel and two rear wheels, thereis a greater distribution of weight and stability when traversing acourse (which can reduce or minimize damage to golf courses from theweight and movement of the bag). Four or more wheels are alsoenvisioned.

The drawings constitute a part of this specification and includeexemplary embodiments to the invention, which may be embodied in variousforms.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages ofthe present invention, reference should be had to the following detaileddescription, read in conjunction with the following drawings, whereinlike reference numerals denote like elements and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sports bag withintegral wheeled transportation system retracted.

FIG. 1A is a bottom view of the bag of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 is a perspective of the bag of FIG. 1, showing the integralwheeled transportation system deployed.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the bag of FIG. 1 (with cover removed), showingthe integral wheeled transportation system deployed.

FIG. 4 is a closeup perspective view of a pivoting handle.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the bag of FIG. 1 (with cover removed), showingthe integral wheeled transportation system retracted.

FIG. 5A is a bottom view of the bag of FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the bag of FIG. 5 (with cover removed), showingthe integral wheeled transportation system deployed.

FIG. 6A is a top view of quick release/lock mechanism.

FIG. 7 is a closeup view of FIG. 5 showing one embodiment for a toothand gear deployment/retraction mechanism suitable for the integralwheeled transportation system.

FIG. 8 shows an individual pushing the bag of FIG. 1 with thetransportation system deployed.

FIG. 9 is a partial sectional view of the bag (with cover removed) ofFIG. 3 showing the upper and lower racks supporting a plurality ofclubs.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the upper rack showing various embodiments forclub restraint systems.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the lower rack showing an embodiment of a clubgrip end restraint system.

FIGS. 12 and 12A is show a brush cleaning system for the wheels.

FIG. 13 shows an alternative embodiment for a pivoting handle along withan alternative embodiment for a quick release/lock mechanism.

FIG. 14 shows the bag of FIG. 1 in a travel container.

FIG. 15 shows two bags similar to FIG. 1 in a motorized golf cart.

FIG. 16 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the deployment andretraction system which includes a sliding member in a sliding housing.

FIG. 17 is a side view of the deployment and retraction systemschematically shown in FIG. 16, and shown in an extended state, wherethe sliding housing has been omitted for clarity.

FIG. 18 is a side view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system of FIG. 17 shown in an extended state.

FIG. 19 is a rear view of the deployment and retraction systemschematically shown in FIG. 17, and shown in an extended state, wherethe sliding housing has been omitted for clarity.

FIG. 20 is a rear view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system of FIG. 17 shown in an extended state.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the deployment and retraction systemschematically shown in FIG. 17, and shown in an extended state, wherethe sliding housing has been omitted for clarity.

FIG. 22 is a top view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system of FIG. 17 shown in an extended state.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the deployment and retraction systemschematically shown in FIG. 16, and shown in a retracted state, wherethe sliding housing has been omitted for clarity.

FIG. 24 is a side view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system of FIG. 17 shown in a retracted state.

FIG. 25 is a rear view of the deployment and retraction systemschematically shown in FIG. 17, and shown in a retracted state, wherethe sliding housing has been omitted for clarity.

FIG. 26 is a rear view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system of FIG. 17 shown in a retracted state.

FIG. 27 is a top view of the deployment and retraction systemschematically shown in FIG. 17, and shown in an extended state, wherethe sliding housing has been omitted for clarity.

FIG. 28 is a top view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system of FIG. 17 shown in a retracted state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are providedherein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention maybe embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosedherein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis forthe claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in theart to employ the present invention in any appropriate system, structureor manner.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sports bag 10 withintegral transportation system 100 shown in a retracted position. FIG.1A is a bottom view of bag 10. FIG. 2 is a perspective of the bag 10,showing integral transportation system 100 deployed. FIG. 8 shows anindividual pushing bag 10. When wheels 300, 400, and 500 are in fullydeployed position, bag 10 can be rolled, by either pushing or pullingit, to traverse the natural ground, grass, asphalt or concrete pavement,stone, gravel, shell, brick and wooden planks or boards, as well as bothorganic and non-organic ground cover, such as straw, bark, stone, rocks,sand and other materials that are typically found on golf courses.

As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, bag 10 can comprise body 20 and integraltransportation system 100. Integral transportation system 100 caninclude handle 110 operatively connected to multiple wheels 300, 400,500, and their associated equipment for deploying and retracting thewheels.

In one embodiment deployment and retraction can be accomplished using asingle mechanical movement of steering handle 110 which is operablyconnected to wheels 300, 400, 500 (as seen in FIGS. 5-7). In oneembodiment a quick release/lock 600 can be used to lock integraltransportation system 100 in either the retracted or deployed position(as seen in FIGS. 5-6A).

FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7 illustrate the mechanics of deployment andretraction of integral transportation system 100. FIG. 2 is a rearperspective view of bag 10, showing integral transportation system 100deployed. FIG. 3 is a side view of bag 10 (with cover 1000 removed forclarity) also showing integral transportation system 100 deployed. FIG.6 is a rear view of bag 10 (with cover removed), showing the integraltransportation system 100 deployed. FIG. 7 is a closeup view of FIG. 5showing one embodiment for a gear and tooth deployment/retractionmechanism suitable for integral transportation system 100. FIG. 5 is arear view of bag 10 (with cover 1000 removed for clarity), showingintegral transportation system 100 retracted.

As shown in FIG. 2 deployment can be achieved by pulling up on a handle110 (in the direction of arrow 112) causing wheel 300 to move linearlyin the direction of arrow 302, and at the same time causing wheel 400 tomove arcuately in the direction of arrow 402, and wheel 500 to movearcuately in the direction of arrow 502. FIG. 6 is a rear view of bag 10(with cover removed) showing integral transportation system 100 beingdeployed. Once integral transportation system 100 is deployed bag 10 canbe caused to move in a desired direction by pushing or pulling on handle110. FIG. 8 shows an individual pushing bag 10.

Retraction can be achieved by pushing handle 110 in the oppositedirection of arrow 112, causing 300 to move linearly in the directionopposite of arrow 302, and at the same time causing wheel 400 to movearcuately in the direction opposite of arrow 402, and wheel 500 to movearcuately in the direction opposite of arrow 502. FIG. 5 is a rear viewof bag 10 (with cover 1000 removed for clarity), showing integraltransportation system 100 retracted. FIG. 5A is a view looking in thedirection of line 5A-5A of FIG. 5, showing wheels 300, 400, and 500 in aretracted position. FIG. 1 shows that bag 10 is the same size as andappears similar in appearance to a traditional golf bag when integraltransportation 100 system has been retracted.

As shown in FIGS. 5-7, deployment or retraction of wheel 300 can berespectively controlled by raising or lowering handle 110. Wheel 300 canbe slidingly connected to bag 10 through opening 185 (in middle bracket170) and opening 212 (in lower bracket 200). Leg 310 can comprisetoothed area 330 and/or toothed area 340. Any of the toothed areas canbe machined directly into leg 310 or can be added separately to leg 310.As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, toothed area 330 (of leg 310) can beoperatively connected to handle 110 through gear 220 and first rod 120(where gear 220 intermeshes with toothed area 122 of rod 120). Toothedarea 340 (of leg 310) can also be operatively connected to handle 110through gear 230 and second rod 130 (where gear 230 intermeshes withtoothed area 132 of rod 130). Any of the toothed areas can be machineddirectly into the rod or be added to the rods as separate sections.Although it is preferred to have leg 310 operatively connected to bothfirst and second rods 120,130 (as it is believed such double connectionincreases stability), only one connection is required. As shown in FIG.6, pulling handle 110 up in the direction of arrow 112 causes first rod120 (along with toothed area 122) to move up (in the direction of arrow113) and second rod 130 (along with s area 132) to move up (in thedirection of arrow 114). Upward movement of toothed area 122 causes acounter-clockwise rotation of gear 220 (in the direction of arrow 222).A counter-clockwise rotation of gear 220 causes a downward movement (inthe direction of arrow 303) of leg 310 ultimately causing wheel 300 todeploy downwardly in a linear direction as indicated by arrow 302.Similarly, an upward movement of toothed area 132 causes a clockwiserotation of gear 230 (in the direction of arrow 232). A clockwiserotation of gear 230 causes a downward movement (in the direction ofarrow 303) of leg 310 ultimately causing wheel 300 to deploy downwardlyin a linear direction as indicated by arrow 302. In FIG. 7 arrows 223schematically indicate that gear 220 can rotate in both clockwise andcounter-clockwise directions. Similarly, arrows 233 schematicallyindicate that gear 230 can rotate in both clockwise andcounter-clockwise directions. Accordingly, leg 310 can move in bothdownward (deployment) and upward (retraction) directions (which isindicated by arrows 119).

As shown in FIGS. 5-7, deployment or retraction of wheel 400 can berespectively controlled by raising or lowering handle 110. Wheel 400 canbe connected to leg 410. Leg 410 (at its upper end 412) can be pivotallyconnected to middle bracket 170. Arm 440 can operably connect leg 410 tofirst rod 120 through pivoting connections at both ends of arm 440.First rod can be slidingly connected to bag 10 through opening 180 (inmiddle bracket 170) and opening 210 (in lower bracket 200). As shown inFIG. 6, pulling handle 110 up in the direction of arrow 112 causes firstrod 120 to move up (in the direction of arrow 113). Upward movement offirst rod 120 causes an upward movement of end 441 of arm 440. An upwardmovement of end 441 causes arm 440 to rotate in the direction of arrow442, which causes a deployment of wheel 400 in the direction of arrow403. Because leg 410 is pivotally connected to middle bracket 170,deployment in the direction of arrow 403 is with an arcuate typemovement. Retraction can be accomplished by a downward movement ofhandle 110 causing all movements to the opposite as stated in thisparagraph.

As shown in FIGS. 5-7, deployment or retraction of wheel 500 can berespectively controlled by raising or lowering handle 110. Wheel 500 canbe connected to leg 510. Leg 510 (at its upper end 512) can be pivotallyconnected to middle bracket 170. Arm 440 can operably connect leg 510 tosecond rod 130 through pivoting connections at both ends of arm 540.Second rod 130 can be slidingly connected to bag 10 through opening 190(in middle bracket 170) and opening 215 (in lower bracket 200). As shownin FIG. 6, pulling handle 110 up in the direction of arrow 112 causessecond rod 130 to move up (in the direction of arrow 114). Upwardmovement of second rod 130 causes an upward movement of end 541 of arm540. An upward movement of end 541 causes arm 540 to rotate in thedirection of arrow 542, which causes a deployment of wheel 500 in thedirection of arrow 503. Because leg 510 is pivotally connected to middlebracket 170, deployment in the direction of arrow 503 is with an arcuatetype movement. Retraction can be accomplished by a downward movement ofhandle 110 causing all movements to the opposite as stated in thisparagraph.

In one embodiment deployment of wheels 300, 400, 500 can be operativelyconnected to a rotating handle (not shown in the drawings). Rotatinghandle can be located at the upper end 30 of body 20; being rotativelyattached to body 20 and including a downwardly extending rod with wormgear that intermeshes with toothed area 122 (of first rod 120) ortoothed area 132 (of second rod 130). As rotating handle is rotated in afirst direction, its worm gear would intermesh with one of the toothedareas of first or second rods 120, 130, causing first and second rods120, 130 to move either up or down (depending on the direction ofrotation of rotating handle). Upward movement would deploy integraltransportation system 100 and downward movement would retract integraltransportation system 100. Additionally, the rotating handle couldinclude a hinged section allowing the hand to turn into the interior ofbody 20 (such as in opening 852 or 854) when not in use (keeping therotating handle out of the way when not used).

In one embodiment wheels 400 and 500 can be adjusted relative to legs410 and 510 using fasteners 430 and 530 (schematically shown by arrows415, 515) at articulating joints 414 and 514). FIGS. 2, 5, and 6 bestshow the rotative adjustability of wheels 400 and 500. In FIG. 6 arrows415 and 515 schematically indicate that wheels 400 and 500 can berotatively adjusted relative to articulating joints 414 and 514.Preferably wheels 400 and 500 would be adjusted so that all three wheels300, 400, and 500 would be parallel to each other (and perpendicular tothe ground) after deployment. Rotative adjustment allows a user toensure that wheels 400 and 500 will be perpendicular to the groundregardless of the extent of deployment of integral transportation system100. In one embodiment wheels 400 and 500 are respectively affixed tolegs 410 and 510 (i.e., not rotatively adjustable relative to legs 410and 510) so that wheels 400 and 500 are parallel to each other and wheel300 (and perpendicular to the ground) after deployment.

In one embodiment a wheel alignment system is provided for wheels 400,500 wherein the wheels automatically align themselves to beingperpendicular to the ground after integral transportation system 100 isfully deployed. During retraction wheels 400, 500 can rotate inward(direction of arrows 415, 515 in FIG. 6) to facilitate storage of wheels400, 500 in open area 71. Forks 420, 520 can be pivotally connected tolegs 410, 510. Although not shown in FIG. 6, cables, wires, or othertethers attached to forks 420, 520 on the outsides 422, 522 of forks,running along (or inside) of legs 410, 510 to a termination points inrecessed area 60 of body 20. Such action can be visualized in FIG. 6,however, cables, wires, or other tethers are not shown. When integraltransportation system 100 deploys the attached cables, wires, or othertethers can cause wheels 400, 500 to pivot in directions opposite of thedirections shown by arrows 415, 515 thereby causing wheels 400, 500 toend up perpendicular to the ground when fully deployed. The cables,wires, or other tethers can run through the interior legs 410, 510 or insheaths connected to legs 410, 510. The cables, wires, or tethers canterminate at the inner side of the sheaths holding each wheel 400, 500.As legs 410,510 move from the retracted to the deployed position, thecables, wires, or tethers that operate in conjunction with each leg 410,510 become taut. The stress placed by the cables, wires, or tetherscause forks 420, 520 (holding wheels 400, 500) to align themselves in aposition parallel to the outer sides of body 20. When wheels 400, 500are retracted, the cables, wires, or tethers become slack, resulting ineach wheel 400,500 pivoting slightly inward in order to be easilyreceived by each wheel's respective stowage compartment in open area 71.

In one embodiment the hub and tire of wheel 300 and the hubs and tiresof wheels 400, 500 can be made in various diameters depending upon theoverall size of the bag 10. The hub and tire of wheel 300, and the hubsand tires of wheels 400,500 can be constructed, for example, from arubber, plastic, polymer or other strong, lightweight and impactresistant materials that can support the forces or loads imposed on orby bag 10, replete with clubs, golf accessories, and personal items,without experiencing any significant deformation. Wheel 300 and wheels400, 500 can generate a low coefficient of friction when rolled, and aredurable and not subject to degradation as a result of exposure toorganic and non-organic materials and substances typically found on golfcourses.

In one embodiment deployment of integral transportation system 100 canbe mechanically assisted by a biasing member 172. As shown in FIG. 5,spring or biasing member 172 can be placed on leg 310 and compressedagainst middle bracket 170 when integral transportation system 100 isretracted. However, during deployment of integral transportation system100 spring or biasing member 172 tends to push down on leg 310, whichdownward force is, in turn, transferred to an upward force on first andsecond rods 120, 130, thereby creating forces to assist in pulling up onhandle 110 for deployment of rear legs 410, 510 and wheels 400, 500connected to rear legs 410, 510 and front wheel 300 connected to leg310. In an alternative embodiment spring or biasing member 172 can beconnected to middle bracket 170 and also at some point on leg 310 sothat when handle 110 is pulled up in the direction of arrow 112 (FIG. 6)member 172 will be stretched. Subsequently, when member 172 would tendto pull handle down in the direction of arrow 303 thereby assisting inretraction of integral transportation system 100. This alternativeembodiment would ease retraction, but increase the difficulty ofdeployment as the resistance of member 172 would have to be overcomeduring deployment (however, such member assisting during retraction). Inanother alternative embodiment spring or biasing member could be incompression when integral transportation system 100 is fully retracted(which would assist in deployment from retraction) and in tension whenthe system is fully deployed (which would assist in retraction).

One embodiment has integral transportation system 100 being confined (ina retracted position) to the geometry of bag 10. As shown in FIGS. 1 and5 when integral transportation system 100 is in a retracted position,none of the wheels 300, 400, 500 or their associated components extendbeyond the geometry of golf bag 10. When retracted, integraltransportation system 100 can be confined to the geometric dimensions ofbody 20. In the drawings, body 20 has been shown as having a circularcross section with recessed area 60 cut into the circular cross section.Additionally, body 20 has been shown with open area 71 in base 70 (seee.g., FIGS. 2 and 3). Looking at the circular cross section of body 20,it can be seen that the retracted integral transportation system 100will not fall outside of the circle as the circle is moved from upperend 30 to lower end 50 of body 20. When retracted, first and second rods120,130 can be contained in recessed area 60. Similarly, legs 310, 410,and 510 can be contained in recessed area 60. Wheels 300, 400, and 500can be contained in open area 71. This unique geometry reduces theoperational hazards associated with transferring bag 10 in and out of avehicle trunk or hatch; allows for the placement of bag 10 on therecessed platforms on the rear of motorized golf carts; is dimensionallycompatible with conventional storage stands, racks, bins, lockers,trucks, platforms or other similar storage configurations typicallyfound in and around golf courses and residences; and fits within travelcontainers and systems for traditional golf bags.

In one embodiment steering handle 110 can be positioned at variousangles (as shown in FIGS. 2-4, 8, and 9). Steering handle 110 can beessentially rectangular in shape. Its vertical and horizontal componentscan be constructed from a strong and rigid lightweight metal or plastic.Its inner opening can be sized to permit a hand to easily grasp steeringhandle 110 from almost any angle. Its rectangular shape can allowgolfers to exert external force upon bag 10 (through integraltransportation system 100) from a multitude of directions in order topush or pull the assembly. Alternate embodiments of steering handle 110in the shape of a pull lever with or without the incorporation of across-sectional member, or in an oval or elliptical shape, are allpossible. Additionally, steering handle 110 can be comprised of spacedapart ends (which are not touching each other). Steering handle 110 canbe pivotally connected to first and second rods 120,130 allowing between0 to 160 degrees (or 0 to 90 degrees) of rotation and capable of beingunlocked and locked to adjust the height of the steering handle to alevel that the golfer finds both comfortable and effective for applyingexternal force to actuate the movement of bag 10. Arrows 111 in FIGS. 2,3, 8, and 9 schematically indicate adjustability (and locking afteradjustment) of handle 110. FIG. 8 shows an individually pushing bag 10after handle 110 has been adjusted pivotally and locked in a desiredposition for the individual's comfort.

In one embodiment, bag 10 can include a quick release/lock mechanism 600(shown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 6A). FIG. 6A is a closeup perspective view ofone embodiment of quick release/lock mechanism 600. To maintain integraltransportation system 100 in a retracted or deployed position, and toprevent the system from inadvertently opening or closing, spring loadedquick release/lock mechanism 600 can be fastened or affixed to body 20,for example, by rivets or other fasteners, such as on support plate 170.Quick release/lock mechanism 600 can comprise biasing member 612, alongwith plugs 620, 640 on each side of locking mechanism 600 for insertioninto corresponding openings located in the sides of leg 310 for wheel300. Squeezing biasing member 612 together in the direction of arrows613 causes plugs 620, 640 to move respectively in the directions ofarrows 602, 604. Releasing biasing member 612 causes plugs to move inthe opposite directions of arrows 602, 604. A first pair of openings canbe placed along the length of leg 310, into which plugs 620, 640 forquick release/lock mechanism 600 can be inserted to secure or lockintegral transportation system 100 in the fully deployed position. Asecond pair of openings (not shown) can be placed (closer to wheel 300compared to the first pair of openings) along the length of leg 310securing integral transportation system 100 in the fully retractedposition. Of course the spring-loaded quick release/lock mechanism 600may also be located in such position as to be used to lock second rod130 and/or first rod 120 in addition to (or in place of) leg 310depending upon the desired geometry of bag 10. As shown in FIG. 1 quickrelease/lock mechanism 600 can be located under cover 1000 and hiddenfrom view by flap 1002.

In one embodiment, bag 10 can include a club support system which canlock clubs into place. FIG. 9 is a partial sectional view of bag 10showing upper and lower racks 800, 900 supporting a plurality of clubs.FIG. 10 is a top view of upper rack 800 showing various embodiments forclub retainer systems. FIG. 11 is a top view of lower rack 900 showingone embodiment of a club retainer system. Clubs placed in bag 10 can berestrained and/or supported by upper and lower racks 800, 900.

Upper rack 800 can include beams 810, 820, 830, and 840 each having aplurality of dividers for holding golf clubs. Although shown ascomprised of a plurality of beams, upper rack can take various forms,such as a single member with a plurality of openings for golf clubs.Preferably, the number total plurality of slots is between 14 and 16.The plurality of dividers can have different configurations, and one ormore of the dividers can include resistance members to restrain movementof golf clubs placed in the slots. Different configurations ofresistance members and/or biasing members can be used on differentconfigurations of dividers. Examples of various types of dividers,resistance members, and/or biasing members are shown on beams 810, 820,830, and 840. Beam 810 shows a plurality of dividers 811, each havingresistance member 812. Resistance members 812 can be rubber, foamrubber, flexible plastic, or other types of materials which will allowplacement of a club through a gap in a resistance member 812. In analternative embodiment a second type of resistance member 814 can beused (as shown being located along the edges of one of the dividers ofbeam 810). Resistance member 814 can be of similar material toresistance member 812, and squeeze the shaft of the golf club insertedinto the divider on which resistance member 814 is placed. Beam 820shows plurality of dividers 821, each having a resistance member 822 andbiasing member 824. Beam 830 shows plurality of dividers 831, eachhaving double biasing member 834. Beam 840 shows plurality of dividers841 (which can be semi-circular, arced, S-shaped, or other irregularshapes), each having resistance member 842. The dividers can includeopenings in a semi-circular or other shape for the placement of clubs torestrain the movement of the clubs at the shaft and thereby prevent theclubs from contacting one another. Although not necessarily shown ineach embodiment of a divider, if desired, biasing members, doublebiasing members, and/or resistance members can be used to confine a clubplaced in a particular divider. Additionally, it is preferred that asingle type of divider, resistance and/or restraining member, and/orbiasing member is used for a particular upper rack 800.

The upper end of body 20 can include openings 850 and 852 (and/or 854)which can be used for storage of items other than clubs.

Lower rack 900 can include row of plurality of openings 920, row ofplurality compartments 930, row of plurality of compartments 940, androw of plurality of compartments 950. Lower rack 900's individualcompartments can correspond to particular dividers in upper rack 800.Such correspondence can keep clubs orderly when placed in bag 10. Rack900 can have a resistance member 910 with a plurality of openings 912corresponding to the individual compartments and allowing a grip end topass but restraining the grip ends of clubs to deter lateral and/orrotational movement in the grip ends of clubs. Resistance member 900 canbe constructed of a rubber, foam rubber, flexible plastic, or othertypes of materials which will allow placement of a club through therubber but tends to restrain rotational movement. Preferably, resistancemember, where foam rubber is used will have a thickness between ½ and 1inch, more preferably between ⅝ and ¾ inches. Alternatively individualresistance members 910, 910′, 910″, etc. can be used in eachcompartment. In rack 900 an assortment of compartments can be usedhaving sufficient length, width, or diametrical dimensions to acceptand/or restrain the grip ends of clubs and thereby deter lateral and/orrotational movement in the grip ends of clubs, such as when bag 10 islifted, carried, rolled, dropped, or experiences jerking forces.Compartments can be constructed in a square, rectangular, or circularshape from, for example, a plastic, polymer or other strong, lightweightand impact resistant material. One embodiment includes a system allowingboth longer and shorter clubs to be kept at substantially one height asseen from the side of bag 10. In one embodiment (shown in FIG. 9) aninternal lower support plate 960 can be used in cooperation with lowerrack 900 to maintain clubs of different lengths at substantially oneheight. Support plate 960 can have a plurality of openings for assistingin ventilation/drainage of the interior of body 20 in case of rain orwhere water enters interior of body 20. As shown in FIG. 9 support plate960 can have an upward slope from front 27 to rear 28 of body 20. Theslope in support plate 960 can allow for the storage of shorter clubs ata height near or equal to the height of longer clubs (shorter clubsbeing placed closer to rear 28 and longer clubs being placed closer tofront 27). In an alternative embodiment lower rack 900 and support plate960 can be combined wherein lower rack itself would have an upward slopefrom front 27 to rear 28 of body 20. In another alternative embodimentthe bottom of body 20 itself can be used as the upward sloping surface(e.g., above area 71). The front 27 of base 70 (for body 20) can belower than the rear 28. Base 70 (of body 20) can slope upwardly fromfront 27 to rear. This slope can be linear, curvilinear, or other typeof slope. The slope in base 70 (at the top of open area 71) can allowfor storage of longer clubs at a height near or equal to the height ofshorter clubs. Longer clubs can be placed closer to front 27 whileshorter clubs can be placed closer to rear 28.

One embodiment includes ventilation/drainage openings for the interiorof bag 10. As shown in FIG. 5 a plurality of ventilation/drainageopenings 72 can be placed in base 70 of body 20 (and/or at otherlocations of body 20). Such ventilation/drainage openings facilitateventilation of the club storage area, the drying of grip ends of clubsand the drainage of the interior of bag 10 in the event of inclementweather.

One embodiment includes a means for allowing bag 10 to stand uprightwhen integral transportation system 100 is retracted. As shown in FIGS.1A, 2, 3, and 9, containment box 80 can contain wheel 300 and beattached to base 70 of body 20. It should be noted that box 80 isoptional and can be omitted if desired. Box 80 can comprise side walls82, 84, rear wall 86, and base 88. As shown in FIG. 1A base 88 can beopen allowing wheel 300 freely to deploy and retract. Base 88 incombination with base 70 can be used to provide support when standingbag 10 in an upright position. Base 88 and base 70 would form aT-support for supporting bag 10 in an upright position. In oneembodiment the interior of box 80 can be open to the interior of body 20(which could assist in ventilating and draining body 20). In oneembodiment the interior of body 20 is not open to the interior of box80. Although not shown, in one embodiment a plate can be extended fromrear wall 86 of box 80 to the rear 28 outer circumference of body 20(which plate should provide further support for standing bag 10upright). Although also not shown, in one embodiment sidewalls 82, 84(from front 27 to rear 28 of body) can be angled (sloped or curved) frombase 88 toward the upper end 30 of body 20 to allow more space for bag10 to traverse uneven areas. Other support embodiments for bag 10 areenvisioned, such as extending a flat plate from base 70 to the rear 28of body 20. The flat plate could be shaped to conform with the crosssectional shape of body 20. An opening in the flat plate could beprovided for allowing wheel 300 to retract and deploy. Wheels 400 and500 would retract and deploy above the flat plate as the plate could bepositioned below their lowermost point during retraction. Side supportscould be used to reinforce the flat plate toward rear 28 of body 20.Another embodiment envisions making body 20 substantially extend to base70 for its entire cross section and including openings for retractionand deployment of wheels 300, 400, 500 along with their associatedlinkages.

One embodiment includes a cleaning system for wheels 300, 400, and 500.FIG. 12 is a rear view of a cleaning system for wheels 300, 400, 500.Brush 700 can be used for wheel 300, brush 710 for wheel 400, and brush720 for wheel 500. Brushes 700, 710, and 720 or other frictional devicescan come into contact with their respective wheel 300, 400, 500 as eachwheel is retracted and/or deployed during retraction and/or deploymentof integral transportation system 100. Through physical agitation,brushes 700, 710, 720 can dislodge or otherwise remove dirt, debris andother particles from wheels 300, 400, 500. Multiple deployments andretractions of integral transportation system 100 can be used to morethoroughly clean wheels 300, 400, 500. Alternative type brushes can beused such as long bristles made of natural or artificial materials. Inan alternative embodiment a frictional device is used as the cleaningsystem, which can be comprised of bristles (metal, plastic, wood,rubber, polymers, other materials) for cleaning the wheels.

FIG. 13 is an alternative embodiment for a pivoting handle 1600 alongwith an alternative embodiment for a quick release/lock mechanism 600′.The pivoting mechanism can comprise knob 1640, toothed connector 1660,toothed connector 1660, locking pivot 1610, toothed connector 1620, andtoothed connector 1630. Handle 1600 can be attached to toothedconnectors 1630, 1660. Toothed connectors 1630, 1660 detachably connectto toothed connectors 1620, 1650. Handle 1600 can be pivoted relative tofirst and second rods 120,130 by loosening knob 1640 which disconnectstoothed connectors 1630, 1660 from toothed connectors 1620, 1650. Afterloosening handle 1600 can be pivoted in the direction of arrows 1602 toa desired orientation. Handle 1600 can then be locked by tightening knob1640 thereby connecting again toothed connectors 1630, 1660 to toothedconnectors 1620, 1650.

FIG. 13 also shows an alternative embodiment for quick release/lockmechanism 600′. Quick release/lock mechanism 600′ can include rods 620,630 which detachably connect to toothed areas 124, 134 of first andsecond rods 120, 130. Activation mechanism 610 can be biased (such as bya spring) so that rods 620, 630 extend outwardly at rest and detachablyconnect to toothed areas 124, 134. To detach rods 620, 630 activationmechanism 610 can be squeezed inwardly moving rods 620, 630 away fromtoothed areas 124, 134. When released, handle 1600 can be moved up ordown (respectively deploying or retracting wheels 300, 400, and 500). Atthe desired elevation of handle 1600 activation mechanism 610 can bereleased causing the biasing means to push outwardly rods 620, 630 whichagain connect to toothed areas 124, 134 thereby locking first and secondrods 120, 130 at the chosen elevation.

In one embodiment, the height of bag 10, when being used as a golf bag,is preferably about between about 31 to 41 inches, more preferablybetween about 35 to 37 inches, and more preferably about 36 inches. Acircular cross section is preferred for bag 10 which is preferablybetween about 7 to 12 inches, more preferably between about 8 to 11inches, and more preferably 10¾ inches. However, other cross sectionalshapes can be used, such as elliptical, oval, rectangular, square, andpolygonal, or a combination of two or more of these shapes.

In one embodiment bag 10 can include an internal structural system whichincludes a plurality of horizontal bands, which can be spaced evenly athorizontal levels about the height. Additionally, multiple vertical rodscan be used as a skeletal framework providing rigidity to bag 10, suchas where a soft material is used for the exterior of body 20 of bag 10.The vertical rods and horizontal bands can be interconnected providing astructural frame for bag 10. Acceptable materials should be selectedbased on loads to be encountered and can include, but are not limitedto, metal, plastic, polymers, wood, etc.

FIGS. 1, 1A, 2, and 8 show a preferred embodiment of bag 10 having acover 1000. Cover 1000 may be constructed of any durable and lightweightmaterial such as, for example, plastic, nylon, polypropylene, canvas,fabric, or other similar material that can withstand natural elementsand the terrain and substances normally encountered on a golf course.Cover 1000 can envelope integral transportation system 100 when system100 is in the retracted position. Cover 1000 can include passageslocated in the rear side 28 of bag 10, which passages can be opened andclosed with zippers 1020, 1040 or other devices, permitting thedeployment of wheels 400, 500 and associated equipment of the integraltransportation system 100. Cover 1000 can include opening 1010permitting deployment of wheel 300. Although not shown opening 1010 caninclude a zipper or other device for closing opening 1010. In differentembodiments Velcro®, buttons, compression snaps, or hook and loopclosure devices can be used. In one embodiment openings can be usedwhich do not have any closure devices. FIG. 8 shows an alternative cover1000′ which includes stowage compartments 1050, 1060. Although not shownin FIG. 8, handle 22 and strap 25 (seen in FIG. 1) can also be attachedsuch as on the side of compartments 1050, 1060.

Bag 10 may incorporate carrying strap 25 or hand grips 22, 24 allowing agolfer or caddy to carry bag 10 when the golfer chooses not to deployintegral transportation system 100 or to easily mount the golf bagassembly on the rear of a motorized golf cart. FIG. 15 shows two bags10, 10′ being transported in motorized golf cart 1510. In oneembodiment, to prevent rain from entering the tops of bags 10,10′, anoverhead awning can be attached to the roof of motorized golf cart 1510,which limits vertical club pull space and precludes mounting bags withexternal wheels or with any portion of the wheels exposed from beingsuitable for mounting and use on motorized golf carts. Raised area 1520can be included in motorized golf cart 1510.

One embodiment allows bag 10 to fit inside a traditional travel case.FIG. 14 shows bag 10 fitting in travel case 1500. Because bag 10substantially maintains traditional golf bag dimensions, no speciallysized travel case need be purchased.

Additional embodiments of bag 10 may incorporate any number ofsupplementary features used to assist a golfer or caddy during a roundof golf. Additional features contemplated include, but are not limitedto, a motor driven mechanism to provide assistance in overcoming initialand other frictional forces encountered in connection with the movementof the golf bag assembly. Additionally, bag 10 can include a globalpositioning device (GPS) to provide accurate distance and locationmeasurements to the golfer while engaged in playing a round of golf.Other features include dedicated range finders, mobile computingdevices, and mobile communication devices. These features may be poweredby a rechargeable battery or by a solar or mechanical generator coupledto the wheel system of bag 10.

Sliding Embodiment

FIGS. 16-28 show an alternative embodiment of the sports bag withintegral transportation system 100′. In these figures the cover 1000 hasbeen omitted for clarity.

FIG. 16 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the deployment andretraction system 100′ which includes a sliding member 2200 in a slidinghousing 2300. FIG. 17 is a side view of the deployment and retractionsystem 100′ shown in an extended state, where the sliding housing 2300has been omitted for clarity. FIG. 18 is a side view of a sports bagwith integral wheeled transportation system 100′ shown in an extendedstate. FIG. 19 is a rear view of the deployment and retraction system100′ shown in an extended state where the sliding housing 2300 has beenomitted for clarity. FIG. 20 is a rear view of a sports bag withintegral wheeled transportation system 100′ shown in an extended state.FIG. 21 is a top view of the deployment and retraction system 100′ shownin an extended state, where the sliding housing 2300 has been omittedfor clarity. FIG. 22 is a top view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system 100′ shown in an extended state.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the deployment and retraction system 100′shown in a retracted state, where the sliding housing 2300 has beenomitted for clarity. FIG. 24 is a side view of a sports bag withintegral wheeled transportation system 100′ shown in a retracted state.FIG. 25 is a rear view of the deployment and retraction system 100′shown in a retracted state, where the sliding housing 2300 has beenomitted for clarity. FIG. 26 is a rear view of a sports bag withintegral wheeled transportation system 100′ shown in a retracted state.FIG. 27 is a top view of the deployment and retraction system 100′ shownin an extended state, where the sliding housing 2300 has been omittedfor clarity. FIG. 28 is a top view of a sports bag with integral wheeledtransportation system 100′ shown in a retracted state.

Bag 10 can comprise cover 1000, body 20, and integral transportationsystem 100′. Integral transportation system 100′ can include handle 2000operatively connected to multiple wheels 300, 400, 500, and theirassociated equipment for deploying and retracting the wheels.

In one embodiment deployment or retraction of wheels 300, 400, 500 canbe controlled by rotating handle 2000. Rotating handle 2000 can bepivotally connected to sliding housing 2300 such that handle 2000 canmove in the direction of arrow 2050 (and in the opposite direction ofarrow 2050). Sliding member 2200 can be operably connected to each ofwheels 300,400,500. For wheel 400 sliding member 2200 can be operablyconnected to leg 410 (through link 440) and for wheel 500 also connectedto leg 510 (through link 540).

Once integral transportation system 100′ is deployed bag 10 can becaused to move in a desired direction by pushing or pulling on handle110. FIG. 8 shows an individual pushing bag 10, which can incorporatethis alternative embodiment for integral transportation system 100′.Once integral transportation system 100′ is retracted, bag 10 can bestored or carried without wheels 300, 400, 500 interfering.

FIGS. 16-28 illustrate the mechanics of deployment and retraction ofintegral transportation system 100. In this embodiment deployment andretraction can be accomplished using a single mechanical movement ofsteering handle 2000 which is operably connected to wheels 300, 400, 500(as seen in FIGS. 16-28 via movement in the direction and oppositedirection of arrow 2050).

As schematically shown in FIGS. 16-28 deployment or extension of wheels300, 400,500 by another embodiment of integral wheeled transportationassembly 100′ can be achieved by pulling handle 2000 in the direction ofarrow 2050 (relative to sliding housing 2300) causing wheel 300 to movelinearly in the direction of arrow 302, and at the same time causingwheel 400 to move arcuately in the direction of arrow 402, and wheel 500to move arcuately in the direction of arrow 502. FIGS. 17 and 19 areside and rear views of bag 10 (with cover removed) showing integraltransportation system 100 being deployed.

As schematically shown in FIGS. 16-28 deployment or retraction of wheel500 can be respectively controlled by moving driving link 2000 either inthe direction of arrow 2050 (or in the opposite direction of arrow2050). Wheel 500 can be connected to leg 510. Leg 510 (at its upper end512) can be pivotally connected to sliding housing 2300. Because leg 510is pivotally connected to sliding housing 2300, deployment in thedirection of arrow 503 is with an arcuate type movement. Deployment orretraction of wheel 400 can be respectively controlled by moving drivinglink 2000 either in the direction of arrow 2050 (or in the oppositedirection of arrow 2050). Wheel 400 can be connected to leg 410. Leg 410(at its upper end 412) can be pivotally connected to sliding housing2300. Because leg 410 is pivotally connected to sliding housing 2300,deployment in the direction of arrow 403 is with an arcuate typemovement.

Deployment and retraction of each of the wheels 300, 400, 500 will bemore particularly described below.

Deployment and retraction of wheel 300 will be described in thisparagraph. Deployment or retraction of wheel 300 can be respectivelycontrolled by moving handle 2000. Wheel 300 can be pivotally connectedto leg 310, and leg 310 can be connected to sliding member 2200. Wheel300 can be slidingly connected to bag 10 through sliding housing 2300sliding member 2200, and can be slidingly/pivotally connected to handle2000 through driving link 2100. Pulling handle 2000 in the direction ofarrow 2050 causes driving link 2100 to push sliding member 2200 down (inthe direction of arrow 302) causing wheel 300 to deploy downwardly in alinear direction as indicated by arrow 302. Similarly, a movement ofhandle 2000 in the opposite direction of arrow 2050 causes slidingmember 2200 to move upward (in the opposite direction of arrow 302) insliding housing 2300 and causing wheel 300 to retract inwardly in alinear (in the opposite direction of arrow 302).

Deployment of wheel 500 will be described in this paragraph. As rotatinghandle 2000 is rotated in a first direction (that of arrow 2050)relative to sliding housing 2300, handle 200 causes driving link 2100 tomove (in the directions of arrows 2060 and 2070). Movement of drivinglink 2100 in the direction of arrow 2070 (relative to sliding housing2300) causes movement of sliding member 2200 in the direction of arrow302 (relative to sliding housing 2300). Movement of sliding member 2200in the direction of arrow 302 causes arm 540 to move in the direction ofarrow 2080 (relative to sliding housing 2300) thereby causing movementof leg 510 deploying or extending wheel 500 arcuately (in the directionof arrow 502). Movement of handle 2000 in the opposite direction ofarrow 2050 causes the opposite movement of the connected parts. Althoughnot shown in FIG. 16, deployment or extension of wheel 400 similarlyfollows—with movements of arm 440, leg 410 and wheel 400.

As schematically indicated, pulling handle 2000 in the direction ofarrow 2050 (relative to sliding housing 2300) causes driving link 2100to move (in the directions of arrows 2060 and 2070). Movement of drivinglink 2100 in the direction of arrow 2070 (relative to sliding housing2300) causes movement of sliding member 2200 in the direction of arrow302 (relative to sliding housing 2300). Movement of sliding member 2200in the direction of arrow 302 (relative to sliding housing 2300) causesarm 540 to move in the direction of arrow 2080 (relative to slidinghousing 2300) thereby causing movement of leg 510 deploying or extendingwheel 500 arcuately (in the direction of arrow 502). As schematicallyindicated, pulling handle 2000 in the opposite direction of arrow 2050(relative to sliding housing 2300) causes driving link 2100 to move (inthe directions opposite of arrows 2060 and 2070). Movement of drivinglink 2100 in the opposite direction of arrow 2070 (relative to slidinghousing 2300) causes movement of sliding member 2200 in the oppositedirection of arrow 302 (relative to sliding housing 2300). Movement ofsliding member 2200 in the opposite direction of arrow 302 (relative tosliding housing 2300) causes arm 540 to move in the opposite directionof arrow 2080 (relative to sliding housing 2300) thereby causingmovement of leg 510 retracting wheel 500 arcuately (in the direction ofarrow 502). Although not shown in FIG. 16, retraction of wheel 400similarly follows—with movements of arm 440, leg 410 and wheel 400.

Extension or deployment of wheel 300 can be achieved by pulling onhandle 2000 in the direction of arrow 2050, causing wheel 300 to movelinearly in the direction of arrow 302, and at the same time causingwheel 400 to move arcuately in the direction of arrow 402, and wheel 500to move arcuately in the direction of arrow 502. Retraction of wheel 300can be achieved by pulling on handle 2000 in the opposite direction ofarrow 2050, causing wheel 300 to move linearly in the direction oppositeof arrow 302, and at the same time causing wheel 400 to move arcuatelyin the direction opposite of arrow 402, and wheel 500 to move arcuatelyin the direction opposite of arrow 502.

The following is a list of reference numerals:

LIST FOR REFERENCE NUMERALS (Reference No.) (Description) 10 golf bag 20body 22 handle 24 handle 25 strap 26 one or more reinforcing ribs orrings 27 front 28 rear 30 upper end 40 mid section 50 lower end 60recessed area 70 base 71 open area 72 ventilation/drainage system 80containment box 82 sidewall 84 sidewall 86 rear wall 88 base 100integral wheeled transportation assembly 110 handle 111 arrows 112 arrow113 arrow 114 arrow 115 arrow 116 arrow 117 arrow 118 arrow 119 arrow120 first rod 122 toothed area 124 toothed area 130 second rod 132toothed area 134 toothed area 140 upper bracket 150 opening 160 opening170 middle bracket 172 spring or biasing member 180 opening 185 opening190 opening 200 lower bracket 210 opening 212 opening 215 opening 220gear 222 arrow 223 arrows 230 gear 232 arrow 233 arrows 300 wheel 302arrow 303 arrow 310 leg 320 fork 330 toothed area 340 toothed area 400wheel 402 arrow 403 arrow 410 leg 412 upper end 414 point 416 lower end420 fork 422 outside 430 fastener 440 arm 441 end 442 arrow 500 wheel502 arrow 503 arrow 510 leg 512 upper end 514 point 516 lower end 520fork 522 outside 530 fastener 540 arm 541 end 542 arrow 600 quickrelease/lock mechanism 602 arrow 603 arrows 604 arrow 610 activationmechanism 612 biasing member 620 rod 630 plurality of openings 640 rod650 plurality of openings 700 brush 710 brush 720 brush 800 upper rack810 beam 811 plurality of dividers or slots 812 resistance member 814resistance member 820 beam 821 plurality of dividers or slots 822resistance member 824 biasing means 830 plurality of dividers or slots834 double biasing means 840 beam 841 plurality of dividers or slots 842resistance member 850 opening 852 opening 900 lower rack 910 resistancemember 912 plurality of openings in resistance member 920 row pluralityof openings 930 row plurality of openings 940 row plurality of openings950 row plurality of openings 1000 cover 1002 flap for quickrelease/lock mechanism 1010 opening 1020 zipper 1030 zipper 1050 stowagecompartment 1060 stowage compartment 1070 stowage compartment 1080pocket 1090 pocket 1500 travel case 1510 motorized golf cart 1520 raisedarea 1600 handle 1602 arrow 1610 locking pivot 1620 toothed connector1630 toothed connector 1640 knob 1650 toothed connector 1660 toothedconnecto 2000 handle 2010 first end 2020 second end 2030 arrow 2050arrow 2060 arrow 2070 arrow 2080 arrow 2100 driving link 2110 first end2120 second end 2200 sliding member 2210 pivoting connection point fordriving link 2100 2240 pivoting connection point for 400 arm 2250pivoting connection point for 500 arm 2300 sliding housing 2310 slot

All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature andpressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. Allmaterials used or intended to be used in a human being arebiocompatible, unless indicated otherwise.

It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or twoor more together may also find a useful application in other types ofmethods differing from the type described above. Without furtheranalysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the presentinvention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adaptit for various applications without omitting features that, from thestandpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics ofthe generic or specific aspects of this invention set forth in theappended claims. The foregoing embodiments are presented by way ofexample only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited onlyby the following claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A sports equipment bag assembly comprising:(a) a bag; (b) an integral transportation system attached to the bag,the integral transportation system including a housing and a memberslidingly connected to the housing, plurality of wheels operablyconnected to the sliding housing via a plurality of wheel legs, thewheels being deployable and retractable between a retracted state and adeployed state; (c) a handle that is movable between upper position andlower positions, said handle being operably connected to the pluralityof deployable wheels and wheel legs; (d) wherein movement of the handlefrom the upper to the lower position deploys the plurality of wheelsfrom the retracted state to the deployed state; (e) wherein movement ofthe handle from the lower to the upper position retracts the wheels fromthe deployed state to the retracted state; (f) during deployment atleast one wheel is required to move through a first type of movement andat least one other wheel is required to move through a second type ofmovement, the first type of movement being different from the secondtype of movement; (g) multiple links that join the wheel legs and thehandle to the sliding member; and (h) said links including a first linkconnecting between the handle and the sliding member and second andthird links each connecting between the sliding member and one of thewheel legs.
 2. The bag assembly of claim 1, wherein the first type ofmovement is linear movement and the second type of movement is arcuate.3. The bag assembly of claim 1, wherein at least two wheels move throughthe second type of movement.
 4. The bag assembly of claim 1, wherein onewheel moves through the first type of movement and simultaneously withthe movement of the one wheel through the first type of movement, theother wheels moves through the second type of movement.
 5. The bagassembly of claim 1, wherein one wheel is of a different size than atleast one other wheel.
 6. The bag assembly of claim 1, wherein rotatingdownwardly on the handle causes the plurality of wheels tosimultaneously deploy and rotating upwardly on the handle causes theplurality of wheels to simultaneously retract.
 7. The bag assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising a storage compartment attached to the bagassembly, wherein the storage compartment is removable.
 8. A sportsequipment bag assembly comprising: (a) a bag; (b) an integraltransportation system attached to the bag, the integral transportationsystem including a sliding housing and a member slidingly connected tothe sliding housing, at least three wheels operably connected to thesliding housing member via wheel legs and links, the wheels beingdeployable from a retracted state to a deployed state, the slidinghousing including a handle operably connected to the plurality ofwheels, the handle being pivotally movable relative to the housingbetween first and second positions to cause the plurality of wheels todeploy from the retracted state to the deployed state responsive topivotal movement of the handle along with returning the plurality ofwheels from the deployed state to the retracted state responsive tomovement of the handle.
 9. The bag of claim 8, wherein during deploymentat least one wheel moves through a first type of movement and at leastone other wheel moves through a second type of movement, the first typeof movement being different from the second type of movement.
 10. Thebag assembly of claim 9, wherein the first type of movement is linearmovement and the second type of movement is arcuate.
 11. The bagassembly of claim 9, wherein at least two wheels move through the secondtype of movement.
 12. The bag assembly of claim 8, further comprising ahandle operatively connected to the integral transportation system,wherein pulling on the handle causes the plurality of wheels to deployand pushing on the handle causes the plurality of wheels to retract. 13.The bag assembly of claim 8, further comprising a storage compartmentattached to the bag assembly, wherein the storage compartment isremovable.
 14. A sports equipment bag assembly comprising: (a) a baghaving a body having an upper end, lower end, and middle sections, and alongitudinal center; (b) an integral transportation system attached tothe bag, the integral transportation system including a housing and asliding member slidingly connected to the housing, a plurality of wheelsoperably connected to the sliding member, each wheel mounted to a wheelleg, each wheel leg attached to the housing, the wheels being deployablefrom a retracted state to a deployed state, the housing including ahandle pivotally connected thereto and operably connected to theplurality of wheels, the handle being both movable between first andsecond positions and along a curved path and operable to cause theplurality of wheels to deploy from the retracted state to the deployedstate responsive to movement of the handle from the first position tothe second position along with returning the plurality of wheels fromthe deployed state to the retracted state responsive to movement of thehandle from the second position to the first position; (c) wherein atleast at one point on the body a cross section taken perpendicular tothe line forming the longitudinal center forms a shape and the shapetransposed down to the lower end will encompass all of the wheels whenthe integral transportation system is in a retracted state; (d) whereinduring deployment at least one wheel is required to move through alinear type of movement and at least one other wheel is required to movethrough a pivoting type of movement; (e) a plurality of links thatconnect from the sliding member to the legs, one of said linksconnecting between the handle and the sliding member, others of saidlinks each connecting between the sliding member and a said wheel leg;and (f) wherein one of the wheel legs moves up and down with the slidingmember.
 15. The bag of claim 14, wherein the wheels, when in a retractedstate, will not be lower than the base.
 16. The bag assembly of claim14, wherein the at least second wheel pivoting type movement is arcuate.17. The bag assembly of claim 16, wherein at least two wheels movethrough the arcuate type of movement.
 18. The bag assembly of claim 14,wherein there are at least three wheels.
 19. The bag assembly of claim14, further comprising a storage compartment attached to the bagassembly, wherein the storage compartment is removable.